ONU Law alumnus Mike DeWine, JD ’72, sworn in as Ohio governor

Congratulations to ONU Law alumnus Mike DeWine, JD ’72, on being sworn in as Ohio governor. Mike DeWine was born in Springfield, OH on January 5, 1947. He attended Miami University in Oxford, OH and earned a B.S. in 1969. He earned a J.D. from Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law in 1972.

After earning his J.D. DeWine was admitted to the Ohio State bar in 1972, and commenced practice in Xenia, OH. DeWine has a long and distinguished career in public service. He served as Greene County prosecuting attorney, in the Ohio State Senate, in the United States House of Representatives, as Ohio lieutenant governor, in the United States Senate, and as Ohio attorney general.

At the opening of his inaugural address on January 14, DeWine stated:

“Today -- we are united as Ohioans. We are united in our passion and commitment to ensuring that all of our children lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. We are united in our resolve to end the opioid crisis. We are united in our desire to preserve and protect our magnificent Lake Erie. And, we are united in our love for and our pride in this wonderful state, with its rich history, abundant natural wonders -- and good and decent people. I will be the Governor for all the people of our state -- and I will remember each and every day that I am their servant.”

At ONU Law, we recognize that attorneys are called to be of service to the community. As one of our distinguished alumni, Governor DeWine demonstrates this high calling of the legal profession and we admire his civic service.

DeWine delivered the commencement address at ONU's commencement ceremony in 2017 and earned an honorary doctorate from Northern in 1995.